Benefits
Bypass QTAC with a Guaranteed Position
On completing Year 12, STEP students will be offered full credit for their completed units and a guaranteed position within the diploma they have been studying. STEP provides alternative entry to full time studies at Southbank Institute, outside of the QTAC admission process.
Guaranteed places will be available to students in all fee structures published at the time of transition to full time. VET FEE-HELP may be available to assist in payment of full fee programs, and further information is available at: southbank.edu.au/vetfeehelp/
Earn credit toward the QCE
Vocational Education and Training (VET) can contribute up to 8 points toward a student's Queensland Certificate Education (QCE). STEP programs are designed to contribute the maximum credit possible, whilst providing a solid underpinning knowledge of the field of study. All details of QCE points can be found on the relevant STEP brochure.
Fast-track completion of a diploma
By beginning a diploma as part of school studies, students are able to accelerate completion of a qualification. In most cases, two years of study in the STEP program will offer 6 months credit toward a diploma, which can equate to only 6 months attendance following school. Whether it is continued study or a start in industry, completion of a diploma offers the opportunity to enter chosen professions sooner.
Be ‘work ready’ sooner
Diplomas are industry recognised — and what industry wants! Our diplomas have been built in conjunction with industry to deliver the skills they are seeking in the workplace. All diplomas offer practical application of skills and include industry placement, which builds confidence in skills.
Pay less for a diploma
STEP offers students an affordable start in their diploma with students paying only material fees while at school (e.g. text books, stationery, uniforms). Tuition fees are subsidised by the Queensland State Government, and it is only when transitioning to full-time that students will be required to pay tuition and materials. By offering a fast-tracked diploma, and credit of up-to 6 months, students will spend less time in full-time studies and reduce the overall cost of their diploma.
An alternative Pathway to University with Credit Arrangements
Since STEP forms part of a student's high school curriculum, students will be accumulating credit towards their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) as well as earning credit toward their diploma qualification.
The credit arrangements developed by Southbank Institute of Technology and university partners, guarantee credit toward selected university degrees from a broad range of diplomas. Southbank boasts over 160 credit arrangements which will credit an average one year toward selected degree programs.
Completion of a diploma will:
- enhance a student's tertiary entrance ranking to a minimum 87 or equivalent OP 8
- decrease the amount of time required at university
- provide two qualifications in near to the equivalent time it takes to complete a university degree
Last updated 2 August, 2010